Chapter 2: Discussion (Draft)

CHAPTER 2

DISCUSSION

What are the cause and effects of Otaku Culture?

I.       Origin of Otaku

     

      As life started with the creation of the world, the term ‘Otaku’ came from various theories; the first theory states that ‘Otaku’ originated from the social networks and trading that Otakus engage in without maintaining their relationship with the people they transact with. Second, another hypothesis states that ‘Otaku’ refers to the fact that Otakus rarely leave their homes, since the latter literally means “your home” as well as “you”, this became the basis of the stereotype that Otaku are antisocial and isolated from the world. Last but not the least, the third theory states that the term began with the creators of Macross, Shoji Kawamori and Haruhiko Mikimoto, instead of using “anata” (you) they used the polite term “otaku” which led to the other members of their studio to use it to refer to the said creators and to fans of anime, manga and other fandoms. (http://www.cjas.org/~leng/otaku-origin.htm)

All three theories point out to a specific significance to the term; the first points out to a sociological cause, the second states a negative outlook that leads to the stereotyping of the culture and the third states a historic significance to the term and the culture.

II.    Cause of Being an Otaku

      A.    How it Started and the Reasons for Addiction

Anime is a style of animation in Japan that caused an uproar to tens to millions of people internationally. The style is distinguished by the characters expressive big-eyes, colorful and gravity defying hair, a display of overly exaggerated emotions and more. Currently, Anime Addiction has captured of many, especially students and the subject of this research, the Otakus. There are many reasons to why Anime and other obsessions lead to the addiction of its viewers. In the case of Anime enthusiasts, Anime itself is the greatest reason to their addiction; Anime is a trend that any Otaku can relate to. Second, Anime has a very good storyline that makes the audience hooked and anticipating for the next episode. Another is good graphics and animation that tickles the eye of the viewer. Next is peer pressure, when one of your acquaintances watches anime, it will surely influence you, sooner or later. Lastly, Anime relieves people of their boredom. Anime with its overly imaginative nature causes its viewers to be relieved of their stress and boredom, opening their minds to a world of creative thinking.  Generally, addiction starts on how a perspective object, in this case Anime, Manga, Cosplay etc. catches the eye of its spectators. No matter how beautiful or amazing the subject is, if the audience itself isn’t amazed or interested, there is nothing to offer. (http://knightsjun.blogspot.com/2012/01/anime-addiction-its-causes-and-effects.html)

III. Effects of Being an Otaku

            A.    Positive Effects

Social Interaction

Survey

Please take time to answer this survey regarding Otaku Culture
This is for my Research Writing Class

Link:

http://freeonlinesurveys.com/s.asp?sid=n0kysp9oeq06wh7228738

Post 12: Otakus and Hikikomoris

 Have you ever heard of the word Hikikomori? Hikikomori which literally means "pulling inward" or "being confined" is a Japanese term for reclusive adolescents who withdraw or shut themselves from social life, resulting to extreme levels of isolation and confinement. These abnormal phenomenons now cause another misunderstanding for Otakus.

According to Lawrence Eng's The Current Status of "Otaku" and Japan's Latest Youth Crisis, Otakus and Hikikomoris are now being flocked together. You may think that there's no problem, after all, Hikikomoris are just social shut-ins or loners but no, Hikikomoris are not just limited to isolation, they often conduct grave acts of violence thus the crisis at hand.

Unlike Otakus, Hikikomoris are almost entirely free of positive connotations.The main point of controversy is not whether the kids are extremely drawn away from modern society -as Otakus already covered that basic part- but whether they are likely to commit acts of violence. This is also the reason to why Hikikomoris are stereotyped as  being modern-day killers.

People used to be afraid of Otakus and their obsession to anime, manga etc. because such behavior was literally unknown to them, therefore Otakus were labeled as a 'possible' cause for social problems, however when the time came that blaming Otakus for everything unproductive was becoming dull, more concrete problems have forced their way to the public eye. In time, Japanese have somehow understood the Otaku fanaticism. They are aware that their obsession doesn't entirely connote that they are inclined to antisocial and violent behaviors, and that maybe other social problems lead to the youth's psychological damage. In comparison to Hikikomori, otaku seem like well-adjusted members of society, if only slightly weird.


In a recent anime I have watched, namely Sakurasou no Pet na Kanojou (The Pet Girl of Sakurasou) one of the main characters is a hikikomori. Ryuunosuke Akasaka is a shut-in or hikikomori who rarely leaves his room. But despite the term, Ryunosuke does not partake in any violent acts, actually his being a shut-in is purely caused by trauma from the betrayal he received. Other animes like Chaos;Head and Welcome to the NHK, also present such characters but are different from the said character for their reasons are based on their own decisions.

Character design for Ryuunosuke Akasaka

In closer inspection,Hikikomoris and Otakus are different from each other. We Otakus are naturally friendly-despite society criticizing us as socially inept and unable to make friends- we spare no bounds to extend our hands to other otakus in need, wherever they maybe. We Otakus have an identity in the modern world in which Hikikomoris do not, that may be the reason as to why they commit their violent acts.

Actually, Otakus and Hikikomoris are quite the distant cousins. This is for the fact that a lot of Otakus whom are shunned abused by society are inclined to withdraw from society all together and be Hikikomoris. In my opinion, society should stop stereotyping Otakus and blaming anime and manga for creating sociopathic monsters, instead they should focus on the real problems amongst their youth that are completely resistant to simple solutions. Take a long look at how Otakus change the world and maybe you will learn the truth.

Post 11: Anime From A-Z

Every country has their own dialect, their own language and their own alphabet, and evidently anime has its very own alphabet too. This alphabet is not a guide to a specific language but more of a guide to the basics of anime.

According to Anthony Chatfield's The Basics of Anime From A-Z every letter of the English Alphabet corresponds to one anime term or series, I didn't agree to some of his meanings so I added my own to some of his terms. So, let's start with letter A.

Anime- is the abbreviated term for "animation" in Japanese. It is the Japanese style of animation which features colorful graphics, characters and action-filled plots of different genres. The earliest record of animation was in 1917 and it grew for the ensuing decades.

Baka- Japanese slang for "idiot". Affectionately used to describe every goofball, stupid-head and annoying character in an Anime, Manga and Game. It is an insult given whenever a character does an act of stupidity hence the word, "BAKA!"

Vocaloid: Camellia Cosplay

Cosplay- short for "costume play", is a performance art in which participants wear costumes and accessories that represent a specific character or idea. Cosplay is centered on role play, making cosplayers portray their knowledge on their chosen characters.

Doujinshi- A Japanese word meaning a work published by a specific interest group for other members of that interest group. Doujinshi usually refers to fan made manga. Because of the copyright laws in Japan fans can get away with making and selling doujinshi featuring their favorite characters from anime and video games although doujinshi also often times feature original characters and stories. A common misunderstanding is that all doujinshi are x-rated fan works but this is not always the case.(http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=Doujinshi)

Ecchi- A Japanese word that roughly translates to 'pervert'. Basically it's used to describe all those school girl animes in which the skirts stop about two inches above their panty line, and yet somehow magically stay on. It's not quite the caliber of Hentai as it tries not to be pornographic, but the fan service and suggestive themes quotient are fairly off the map.

Fairy Tail's main cast

Fairy Tail- is an anime series based on the manga of same name by Hiro Mashima. It follows the story of Lucy Heartfilia as she seeks to become a member of the famous Fairy Tail Guild. Helped into joining by Natsu Dragneel and Happy, she goes on an array of adventures with them, along with Gray Fullbuster and Erza Scarlet. (http://fairytail.wikia.com/wiki/Episodes)

Gundam- One of the original fathers of anime. Around for 25 or more years now, Gundam has produced more than 25 series and movies since it debuted in 1979, and continues to be one of the most popular series every year, with an exponential growth of productions of late. The show was one of the pioneers of the giant mecha anime and an underground favorite in America for years....and it makes for some pretty awesome cosplayers.

Hentai- is a Sino-Japanese compound term widely used in modern Japanese to designate a person, action or state that is considered queer or perverse, particularly in a sexual sense.  Apart from this general use of the term hentai, it can also be used to designate a specific genre of Japanese manga and animation that features extreme or perverse sexual content and it is in this sense that hentai has become well-known among western fans of Japanese popular culture.

Initial D- is a manga by Shuichi Shigeno which has been serialized in Kodansha's Young Magazine since 1995. The story focus on the world of illegal Japanese street racing, where all the action is concentrated in the mountain passes and rarely in cities nor urban areas, and the drift racing style is emphasized in particular.This anime series also became a hit game and the epitome of other racing anime series. (http://initiald.wikia.com/wiki/Initial_D)

Jump- Jump or Shonen Jump is the monthly manga publication in Japan that broke some of the biggest names in anime. Dragon Ball, Naruto, One Piece, Rurouni Kenshin and so on. The super popular children oriented anime that rules the charts comes out of this little gem repeatedly.It is now circulized internationally for the viewing of many.

Kawaii- Japanese adjective for cute. And that's how you describe half of what they produce. Super cute, to the point of nausea at times. The ability to turn the ugliest, most disturbing things into cute and cuddly mascots is a distinctly Japanese ability.

Alodia as a Lolita Doll

Lolita- A fashion from Japan that tries to capture the innocence of youth, and nostalgia for the 19th century. Knee length puffy skirts, lacy blouses, platform mary janes and head dresses are standared attire.There are several types of Lolita: Gothic Lolita, Sweet Lolita and the Classic Lolita. (http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=lolita)

Manga- "Manga" are Japanese comic books/graphic novels. The word literally means "whimsical pictures" in Japanese. It is somewhat the same as American comics in means of reading entertainment.

Naruto- is an ongoing anime and manga series by Masashi Kishimoto. The plot tells the story of Naruto Uzumaki, an adolescent ninja who constantly searches for recognition and dreams to become the Hokage, the ninja in his village who is acknowledged as the leader and the strongest of all. Naruto reigns supreme as one of the five kings of Shonen Jump.

Otaku- is the Japanese term for people with obsessive hobbies bordering to the extent that it becomes a major part of their identity.

Pokemon- short for Pocket Monsters, is the new generation of child-oriented anime born of marketing necessity. It's been on for almost 17 years now, and still new episodes pop up.Pokemon's main character Satoshi or popularly known as Ash Ketchum is the center of query in Pokemon, as Ash is 10 when the series started, after 17 years of airing, Ash is just about to turn 11, this states the immortality and impossible feats of anime at its finest.

Rurouni Kenshin- Rurouni Kenshin or popularly known as Samurai X is the story of a wandering samurai in the Meiji Era of Japan known as Kenshin Himura. He seeks forgiveness for his sins as he once was the assasin, "Batusai the Slasher". In his journey he finds friends, who ultimately becomes his family and undertakes various quests to help the government to form a few years and survive. This is an epic anime series that still warms the hearts of many.

Sword Art Online

Sword Art Online- is a light novel by Reki Kawahara turned hit-anime series. Sword Art Online or SAO for short, swept the anime charts with its refreshing anime plot and the love it presented to the viewers in the forms of the two main characters, Kirito and Asuna. It is a much recommended series, if you haven't watched it, then go watch it now!

Tezuka Osamu- is the "Godfather of Anime and Manga". He gave rise to classic anime series like Astro Boy, Kimba the White Lion and Black Jack. His prolific output, pioneering techniques, and innovative redefinitions of genres earned him such titles as "the father of manga", "the god of comics" and "kamisama of manga".

Uchuujin- Japanese word meaning "Alien". This is not a common word before but as of the start of the anime Kaichou wa Maid-sama and other anime like To-Love-Ru this became a common ground for anime plots.  In Maid-sama, Misaki Ayuzawa calls Usui Takumi as a "Perverted Outer-space Alien".

A scene from Episode 19 of Maid-sama

Voice Acting/Dubbing- Voice acting or dubbing is the way the anime characters come to life. Unlike American and the Philippine voice actors, Japan has a wide range of voice actors that present a big role to Anime.

Wagamama Fairy Mirumo De Pon- or Mirmo de Pon! is a manga series by Hiromu Shinozuka. It centers on teenager Katie Minami who wishes on a mug and eventually summons the fairy, Mirmo. At the expanse of the series Mirmo helps Katie to catch the eye of her crush, Dylan. This a basic anime series but nonetheless it has attracted the hearts of many Otakus and fans all around the world.

 

XXXHolic- a work by manga quartet, CLAMP. XXXHolic, the storyline of xxxHolic crosses over with that of a number of other Clamp series, Tsubasa Chronicles. XXXHolic is a supernatural genre anime that centers on the life of teenager Kimihiro Watanuki as he helps out in the shop of dimensional witch, Yuuko Ichihara. It is an anime full of suspense, horror and also an introduction to Japanese folklore.

Yaoi Anime: Sekaiichi Hatsukoi

Yaoi- Yaoi or Boy's Love, is the depiction of Man to Man love, meaning gay relationships. Yaoi is on a higher scale as opposed to Shounen Ai which is a softer approach to the relationships in the gay community. It is predominantly aimed at the shojo (girls), josei (older women) and homosexual markets.

Dragon Ball Z- Dragon ball Z was one of the key reasons that anime spread to the mainstream here in the states after all, with a couple hundred episodes and memorably long (and I mean looooong) fights, Dragon ball Z captured the fan base of all the young violence prone kids nationwide and kept them enthralled throughout the years.

As the ending  goes~Now I know my ABC's next time wont you sing with me?~ Anime is not just a common past time it is a language that people agree upon and understand fully.

Post 10: Filipino KOMIKS!

Ever since I was young I loved to read. I would read a novel for like 2 whole days or a week for the latest, but as I got older and busier with school works and other stuff, I began to read less. As such I started to look for shorter yet entertaining reading materials. In my 1st year in high school, I was introduced to Mangas and Comics. I enjoyed reading it as it was easy to understand but as I am curious, I began to wonder, How did the Filipino Comics industry start?





According to Duy Tano's Filipino Komiks and History the very first Filipino Comic is Jose Rizal's very own "Ang Matsing at ang Pagong", it was Rizal's outlet to show the oppression shown by the Spanish invaders, to which the story shows how a turtle outwits a clever monkey to do his bidding who ultimately fails in the end and loses the most important thing...his dignity.

Jose Rizal: The Philippine National Hero

and the First Filipino 'Komikero'

  The Philippines' most popular comic artist is none other than Mr. Mars Ravelo. He made classic superhero comics and mythological stories like Darna, Captain Barbell, Flash Bomba, Dyesebel, Tiny Tony, Lastikman, Varga and many more. These comics are now being serialized as movies and TV series with multiple adaptations of the said stories. Though "Dyesebel" was not a superhero but in fact a woman turned mermaid, her story captivated the Filipino audience. "Dyesebel" now has a multitude of TV and movie adaptations, also other stories that were based on her story design. Mars Ravelo's works was a way for him to show the feeling of freedom and escapism that was in the air at the time of colonization, having just driven the Japanese out and gaining our independence even as an American territory. For the first time in centuries, we were an autonomous country.

 Nowadays, the Filipino Comics Industry is still growing, as this century's generation is still mesmerized by the promises of foreign products, Komikeros strive hard to make comics that will gain not only the attention of Filipino children but also their respect.

I, myself am a supporter of KOMIKS, I enjoy reading old and new works and I have also gained interest in a particular local comic publishing house. Studio Studio is a band of Filipino comic artists who are fans of manga and have adapted its style to produce their own brand of comics. Studio Studio has so far, released two graphic novels: Love is in the Bag and Angel Crush. I have copies of volumes 1 and 2 of Love is the Bag and I was really addicted to the plot. Although I wasn't able to buy the last 3 copies, I have read the whole series and I just love it! Angel Crush was also good though it wasn't as a hit as Love is in the Bag, it was a step to Studio Studio's take on supernatural genre.

Covers of Love is in the Bag Vol. 1-5 and Angel Crush Vol. 1

Aside from the usual comic artists and their works, comic enthusiasts have arranged an annual celebration of Filipino comic artistry with KOMIKON, the largest comic convention in the Philippines. It is an event that commemorate Filipino artists, promote their works and amateur artists can also learn from veteran artists all around the world.

KOMIKS as we Filipino's say it, is a way of expression, well for me this is definitely true. As an artist, we show our feelings and emotions through our canvas, for Komikeros they let their emotions through their stories and with that they shall be recognized. An amateur artist once said:

"It's not how beautiful or artistic your drawings turn out to be, it is how your drawings portray the stories and emotions you want to express to your reader, that's what truly matters"

Post 9: Comics and Manga: The Difference

Have you ever wondered what is the difference between a standard American Comic and the Japanese Manga Comics? Well, aside from their given countries of origin that is, but aside from this fact, do you know the exact contrast of the reading materials you are holding in your hands?

Michael Russell's article Comic Books - Japanese Manga vs American Comics and Sarah Gettinger's Manga vs American Comic Books: What's the difference? say that there are a few obvious and not so noticeable characteristics of Manga and Comics.

First and foremost is that Manga is read from right to left -as it is the basic reading orientation of the Japanese- while Comic books are read in the official left to right reading scheme.




Second, there is a big difference in art styles. Manga is more centered on style or exaggerated drawing aspects such as the expressive big-eyes, colorful and gravity defying hair, a display of overly exaggerated emotions, and more. While Comic books on the other hand, are more realistic and dense; Mangas are more light and subtle. But as different artists come and go, they make their own styles, some Comic artists adapting to the Manga-style of creation and Manga artists adapting to Comic-style drawings.

Next is the creation and presentation of Comics and Manga. Manga covers are printed in color but the inside is printed in black and white format (unless the issue is a color special) while Comics books are in majority in full color. Also, you may notice that there is a difference in sizes. Manga are frequently smaller than Comic books, usually in digest-size and roughly half to one-third of the tradition Comic size. But as Comic are generally thin running about 32 pages long, Mangas are thick and can be hundreds of pages in length. In page count, Manga is quite reminiscent of American graphic novels, which are a collection of ongoing Comic series in a single unified story, Mangas are often part of an even bigger story and a complete storyline that can run to tens to hundreds of volumes.

Shugo Chara Volume 12: Cover

Shugo Chara Volume 12: Inside

Russell says:

Another difference between traditional American comics is that mainstream American comics are often created in a sort of assembly-line fashion. They have a writer (story), a penciler (initial sketch), inker (uses a pen to ink over the sketch), letterer (adds dialog) and a colorist (colors the inked sketch). Most Manga books are done by a single creator, who combines all those chores (except coloring).
 
 Manga story lines have a much quicker pace than comics, this is due to the high page count, one reads a manga novel at a faster pace. Manga has fewer panels and less dialogue per page than Comics. The price also costs more than your average comic and a bit more than your standard paperback novel, the size and color lack is made up when you consider the story development that it'll have with the amount of pages it provides.

 Last but not least is that Manga is geared towards a larger audience and wide range of genres. There is Manga for literally everyone as oppose to Comics where in American stereotype, it is considered childish and geeky to own a comic book at an adult's age.

In my opinion, Comics and Manga can be read by all ages, there is a difference between the two in terms of art, creation and presentation but there is no difference that they both give entertainment to those who read them.  Readers find it as their gateway to their dreams and as such shouldn't be judged by others. Well as those facts are given, it is now clear what the difference between Comic and Manga really is, I won't hinder any further. Enjoy Reading!